Ledger Live Desktop — Install, Secure & Use

Introduction

Ledger Live Desktop is the official application for managing Ledger hardware wallets on your computer. It provides a secure interface to manage cryptocurrencies, send and receive funds, monitor your portfolio, and stake supported assets. This guide will walk you through installing, securing, and using Ledger Live Desktop safely and efficiently.

Tip: Only download Ledger Live Desktop from the official Ledger website to ensure safety and authenticity.

Step 1: Download Ledger Live Desktop

Visit Ledger.com/ledger-live.
Select the desktop version compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
Download the installer and run it to install Ledger Live Desktop.
Launch Ledger Live Desktop and click “Get Started”.

Tip: Always verify the checksum of the downloaded file to ensure authenticity.

Step 2: Connect Your Ledger Device

Connect your Ledger hardware wallet using the USB cable.
Enter your PIN code to unlock the device.
Ensure the dashboard is visible on your Ledger device screen.

Important: Ledger will never ask for your PIN or recovery phrase. Never share them with anyone.

Step 3: Initialize Ledger Live Desktop

Select “Set up as new device” if you have a new Ledger or “Restore from recovery phrase” if you are restoring an existing wallet.
Follow on-screen instructions to initialize your device securely.
Confirm every action on both your Ledger device and Ledger Live Desktop.

Step 4: Set PIN and Backup Recovery Phrase

Create a strong PIN code to secure your Ledger device.
Write down your 24-word recovery phrase on the recovery sheet provided.
Store your recovery phrase offline in a safe location.

Important: The recovery phrase is the only way to recover your funds if the device is lost. Keep it private and secure.

Step 5: Install Cryptocurrency Apps on Ledger

Open Ledger Live Desktop and go to the “Manager” tab.
Allow Ledger Live Desktop to access your device.
Select cryptocurrency apps you wish to install.
Click “Install” and wait for completion.

Step 6: Add Accounts

Go to the “Accounts” tab.
Click “Add Account”.
Choose the cryptocurrency you want to add.
Follow on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

Step 7: Sending and Receiving Cryptocurrencies

To receive: Click “Receive”, verify the address on your Ledger device, and share it with the sender.
To send: Click “Send”, input recipient address and amount, verify on your Ledger device, and confirm.

Tip: Always confirm addresses directly on your Ledger device screen to avoid malware or phishing attacks.

Step 8: Monitor Portfolio

Check real-time balances for all your accounts.
Review transaction history for each cryptocurrency.
Use the dashboard to track portfolio performance over time.

Step 9: Staking and Rewards

Select a supported cryptocurrency for staking.
Click “Stake” and follow the instructions to delegate your funds.
Track and claim rewards directly in Ledger Live Desktop.

Tip: Only stake cryptocurrencies officially supported by Ledger to ensure security.

Step 10: Updates and Maintenance

Regularly check for Ledger Live Desktop updates.
Follow instructions to update both Ledger Live Desktop and your device firmware.
Never disconnect your device during updates.

Important: Updates improve security and ensure compatibility with new cryptocurrencies.

Step 11: Security Best Practices

Never share your PIN or recovery phrase.
Always verify transaction addresses on the device screen.
Store recovery phrases offline and in multiple secure locations.
Consider enabling passphrase protection for enhanced security.

Step 12: Troubleshooting & Support

Ensure Ledger Live Desktop and device firmware are up-to-date.
Check USB connections and device functionality.
Contact Ledger Support for assistance.

Tip: Never share your recovery phrase when seeking support.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully installed and configured Ledger Live Desktop. Your Ledger wallet is now ready to securely send, receive, stake, and monitor cryptocurrencies.

Always adhere to security best practices, safeguard your recovery phrase, and regularly update your software to ensure maximum protection. Your journey into safe crypto management begins here!